The blood test for arsenic checks for heavy metal arsenic exposure. Arsenic is a natural element found in soil and minerals and is also used as pesticides and in compounds for wood preservation. Arsenic from wind-blown dust can get into the air, water, and soil. Runoff could also allow for it to get into water.

Exposure to arsenic can be from:

breathing sawdust or smoke from burning arsenic-treated wood

ingesting small amounts in food, water, or air

workplace exposure

living in an in a location with high levels of arsenic in rock

Health problems from arsenic exposure can include:

nerve damage

corns and small warts

inflammation of the lungs

changes in the color of your skin

cancer

heart problems

death

Repeated exposure over a long period of time can cause cancer or even death.

Arsenic may not be detected in blood samples more than two days after exposure.